Selfish Gene - Can India evolve in digital economy ?

I attended the CII West Tech Summit 2015 last week. It had  an array of distinguished guests  and series of topics impacting industries.

Here are some of the highlights I captured:

Inaugural address:

·         Mr Sanjay Kirloskar gave insights into huge potential of western region contributing to  25% of nation's  GDP

·         Dr  Ajeenkya Patil laid emphasis  on ever increasing role industry can play in shaping leaders of tomorrow.

·         The transition of India as nation from art and craft driven traditional skilled nation to mechanized mass production was beautifully laid by Dr Katragadda. Numerous examples on innovation in ancient India can no longer just surprise us but give sense of belief in our potential.

Plenary session: How knowledge driven economy can boost vision of Make in India?

·         Mr Kirloskar shared some insights into latest advances in use of augmented reality, to its value chain of solutions.

·         Mr Jehengir from Forbes Marshall spoke about freedom to experiment  and natural process of  socialization. He gave very interesting insights how instinctive and counter intuitive ways are helping them overcome   complex technology challenges and create sophisticated solutions.

·         Mr Parag Satpute shared deep mining expertise and how remote monitoring is crucial for safety of operations.

·         Mr Teja talked about how technology driven disruptions are causing paradigm shift across traditional industries. New business models are changing competitive landscape.

Industry forums

There were host of discussions around how industry is perceiving trends around  ICT Innovations.  Automotive was sector in focus embracing digital mechanism to delivery safety, sustainability and affordability.
There were interesting discussions on how contributions from India are making impact to wider audiences in context of Global economy.

Defence manufacturing
Lastly the final session on Defence was full  of anecdotal speeches. Capt Kalra  (Retd) shared insights  into his experiences  bringing  defence knowledge  as private contractor to Indian Defence manufacturing. I plan to read  book "Selfish gene" from which he quoted a statement of very profound importance. 

As a part of evolution every gene replicates itself to create an identical copy. Yet there is slight difference that leads to successor having higher chances of survival.

Lt Gen Shekatkar(Retd.) shared importance  of why  indigenization is vital for national security.  New paradigm will open avenues for private sector to grow in areas erstwhile not available.

Quote from his speech:
If you want to walk fast, walk alone. If you want to walk long, walk together.

What I learned ?
Summit confirmed the great opportunity for India as nation to transform itself in the knowledge economy. India has to realize its strengths and opportunities. We cannot bask in the past glory. Neither can we hope things will happen our way just because opportunities exist.

Lot of ground needs to be covered and right application of technology to create new profitable businesses. These will help industries take our nation to next level of evolution.